We saw a glimpse of what Josh Bynes was able to do last season, now insert a far more talented linebacker who should lead the Cardinals defense in tackles in 2019. Hicks’ move to Arizona is an upgrade on his overall IDP value for a number of reasons but the most glaring is the fact that he should see more playing time with a still questionable Cardinals offense.

The biggest key to Hicks making the jump into the top 20 in 2019 will be health. Hicks has only played 16 games once in his four-year career but perhaps a change of scenery and climate will keep him on the field for all 16 games again in 2019.

If you read my top 20 article you’ll know that Jayon Brown is one of the reasons Wesley Woodyard won’t make the top 20 in 2019. If you watched Brown in 2018 you saw great instincts to get after the passer and it’s obvious that Rashaan Evans will have a larger role in 2019 so that leaves us asking what will happen to Woodyard. I’d expect a 3 headed ILB rotation if things don’t shake out before the 2019 season starts but fully expect Brown and Evans to pull away and claim control of their respective ILB positions by mid-season leaving Woodyard with the least amount of playing time of the three.

This one might be a little spicy. While Davis hasn’t graded well since joining the league he has been serviceable and has shown some flashes of greatness. There has also been some chatter of the Lions going after 2019 draft prospect Devin White to compliment Davis in the middle. I have to admit this would be a solid pairing for Detroit. Matt Patricia should be able to bring out the best we’ve seen in Davis, the talent and athletic ability is there; Davis just needs to put it all together in 2019.

Take out the game he was injured in plus the following two games he missed and you’ll see that Cunningham had a hell of a season in 2018. Cunningham led the team in tackles during the 2018 campaign and I’d expect more of the same in 2019. It’s not out of the question that both Cunningham and fellow ILB Benardrick McKinney could see 100+ tackles again in 2019. The difference between the two is that Cunningham is a playmaker and an athletic freak who should warrant a spot on your IDP rosters in 2019.

Zach Cunningham almost had a pick in a shallow zone earlier. Clowney with the pressure outside. Cunningham gets one here: pic.twitter.com/pKU2YCEC6B

If you liked this article, check out my 2018 top 20 linebacker, safety and edge rusher articles and be on the looking out for my 2018 top 40 safety and edge rusher articles soon!

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